Hand-held load distribution device

ABSTRACT

A device (100) for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, the device (100) comprising a first portion (1) arranged for attachment to the wrist, arm or hand of a user of the device (100); and a second portion (2) arranged to support, at least in part, the weight of the hand-held load; wherein the first and second portions (1,2) are formed from a single piece of material.

The present invention relates to a device for distributing the weight of hand-held loads.

The manual hand and finger transportation of items such as grocery shopping or any other form of load can result in discomfort or even injury depending on the physical status of the individual, the weight of the load and/or the length of time in transportation.

According to at least one embodiment, there is provided a device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, comprising means for attaching the device to the wrist, arm or hand of a user of the device; and means for bearing the weight of a load held by the user; wherein the device is formed from a single piece of material, preferably arranged such that at least part of the weight of a hand-held load is borne by said wrist, arm or hand of the user.

According to at least one embodiment, there is provided a device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, the device being formed from a blank. The device may comprise a first portion arranged for attachment to the wrist, arm or hand of a user, and a second portion arranged, at least in part, to fit within the palm of a hand of the user, preferably so as to distribute the weight of a hand-held load borne (or supported) by the second portion to said wrist, arm or hand via the first portion.

According to at least one embodiment, there is provided a device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, comprising: a first portion arranged to attach the device to the wrist of a user; and a second portion arranged to support, at least in part, a hand held-load; wherein said first and second portions are formed from a single piece of material.

In conjunction with the first portion, the second portion is preferably arranged to support, at least in part, the weight of the load when held in the hand.

The device may be operable to be moved between a first configuration, in which the device is substantially planar, and a second configuration, in which the device forms a three-dimensional structure for distributing the weight of a hand-held load. The device may be arranged to have a substantially planar configuration prior to use. It may be convenient to store, transport or distribute the device in the first configuration, whereas the second configuration may be considered to be an operative configuration.

The first portion may be arranged to form a band (or strap) around the wrist, arm or hand of a user. The first portion may comprise two opposing sides, the device being operable to be used reversibly such that either side of the first portion may rest on the wrist, arm or hand of a user when attached.

The first portion may be arranged to have a substantially frustoconical configuration and/or to form a substantially frustoconical shaped band (or strap) so to conform to the shape of a joint between the wrist and hand of a user, for example when attached thereto. The frustoconical configuration and/or shape may be arranged such that the diameter of the cone increases towards the second portion, for example towards the wrist or hand when attached to a user, for example such that the inner surface of the band applies force whereby to distribute the load onto a user's wrist, arm or hand. Optionally, in either of the above arrangements, the frustoconical shape may be provided by the first end of the first portion being arranged at an angle of between 90 degrees and 180 degrees, preferably an angle of between 100 degrees and 160 degrees, more preferably an angle of between 120 degrees and 140 degrees, and even more preferably an angle of about 130 degrees, relative to the second end of the first portion.

Alternatively, the first portion may be arranged to form a ‘reverse’ substantially frustoconical-shaped band, for example such that the outer surface of the band might apply a force onto another surface thereby to distribute the load. Preferably, the same above-mentioned ‘relative’ angles between the first and second ends of the first portion may still apply, albeit that the first and second ends of the first portion would be pointing generally towards the second portion in the ‘reverse’ arrangement, rather than generally away from the first portion as in the previously described (‘non-reverse’) arrangement.

The first portion may be provided with one or more fastening means for attaching the device to the wrist, arm or hand of a user, preferably wherein the fastening means is removably attachable such that the device is reusable, for example wherein the device can be attached, detached, and reattached without damaging it. The fastening means may comprise one or more fastening elements provided on a first end of the first portion and one or more fastening slots provided on a second end of the first portion, the one or more fastening elements being arranged to engage with the one or more fastening slots so as to fasten the first end to the second end. The one or more fastening elements may be formed by one or more substantially semi-circular slots being provided in the first portion, for example so as to form one or more tabs. The one or more slots in the first portion may have rounded ends.

The second end of the first portion may comprise means for guiding the first end of the first portion so as to connect the first end and second end together, for example a slot through which the first end can be inserted.

The first portion may have a width of between 100 mm and 500 mm, for example, and preferably between about 300 mm and about 500 mm, though it could be wider or narrower depending on the intended application and hence load to be distributed.

The second (or first) portion may be generally perpendicular to at least part of the first (or second) portion, preferably such that the first extends away from the second portion in a generally perpendicular direction. The first end or second end of the first portion may be longer than the other of the second or first end of the first portion, for example wherein the device is generally axe-shaped. The second portion may be arranged, at least in part, to fit within the palm of a hand of the user so as to distribute the weight of a hand-held load. The second portion may be arranged to extend at least partway across the palm of a hand of the user when the device is attached to the user, and optionally to extend at least partway along a user's fingers.

The second portion may be arranged such that it is capable of being curled over by a user's fingers when the device is attached to the user, for example whereby to form a channel (or groove) in the palm of a hand of the user hand for receiving a load when the device is attached to the user. The second portion may be arranged to be supported by the hand and/or fingers of a user, in use, when the device is attached to the user, for example so as to secure the second portion to or around the load, such as the handle of a carrier (or shopping) bag.

The second portion may comprise curved sides, preferably concave sides, preferably arranged to increase in width exponentially, as the distance increases from the first portion, such that a distal edge of the second portion, relative to the first portion, is arranged to have a substantially flared configuration.

The second portion may be arranged to bow, preferably away from a user's palm, when under load, whereby the load can be supported by (at least the) opposing ends of the distal edge of the second portion, for example when the second portion is not supported by a user's fingers.

A (or the) distal edge of the second portion, relative to the first portion, may be arranged such that it can be curled over upon itself whereby to secure the load within the second portion when held by a user whereby to secure the load within the second portion.

The device may be arranged such that it is operable to be used reversibly, for example either side of the device may be in contact with the user's skin without affecting the functionality of the device.

The device may comprise a single piece of material, preferably sheet material. The device may have a thickness of less than 5 mm, and preferably less than 1 mm. The device may be arranged to have a substantially planar (e.g. two-dimensional) configuration prior to use. The material may be resiliently deformable and/or resistant to being torn and/or stretched. For example, the material may be a material comprising plastic, such as polyester or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

According to at least one embodiment, there may be provided a device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, the device being formed from sheet material having a thickness of less than 5 mm, and preferably less than 1 mm.

According to at least one embodiment, there may be provided a device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, the device being formed from sheet material comprising material that is resistant to being torn and/or stretched, for example a material comprising plastic, such as polyester or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

The device may be formed from a blank. The device or blank may be dimensioned such that it can be formed (e.g. die cut) from an A4-sized sheet of material, preferably wherein a standard A4-sized sheet of material (e.g. paper) has a length of 297 mm and a width of 210 mm. The device or blank may be dimensioned such that two devices or blanks can be formed (e.g. die cut) from a single A4-sized sheet of material. For example, the first end and second end of the first portion may have relative angles (such as those described above) that enable at least one (device) blank to fit within the footprint of an A4-sized sheet of material and/or the second portion may have a width (e.g. between about 60 mm and about 100 mm—at its narrowest part—i.e. so as to fit within the palm of a hand) and/or a length (e.g. between about 80 mm and about 200 mm—so as to extend at least partway across the palm of a hand and/or across at least part of the fingers—not including the width of the first portion) that allows at least one device or blank to fit within the footprint of an A4-sized sheet of material.

For example, a device or blank having a length of about 290 mm, first and second ends of the first portion arranged at an angle of about 135 degrees apart, a first portion having a width of about 40 mm, and a second portion having a length of about 80 mm (extending away from the first portion), may allow two devices or blanks to be formed from a single A4-sized sheet of material, though it should be understood that this is just an exemplary arrangement of a device or blank.

According to another embodiment, there is provided a blank having an arrangement of curves and angles configured such that the blank can be assembled to form a substantially rigid three-dimensional article.

According to at least one embodiment, there may be provided a blank shaped as a device as described herein.

The blank may comprise a material that is resistant to being torn and/or stretched, for example a material comprising plastic, such as polyester or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The blank may comprise a substantially two-dimensional piece of material, preferably sheet material. Preferably, the blank consists of a single piece of material. The blank may be shaped such that it can be assembled to form a device as described herein.

According to at least one embodiment, there is provided a method of manufacturing a device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load as described herein, comprising forming the device from a blank, for example wherein the blank comprises a single piece of material.

According to another embodiment, there is provided a method of manufacturing a device or blank for distributing the weight of a hand-held load as described herein, comprising forming the device or blank from a single piece of material.

According to at least one embodiment, there is provided a garment comprising a device as described herein.

The present invention may extend to a device or a blank as substantially described herein with and illustrated in the accompanying figures.

The device can reduce fatigue and provide additional comfort and control whist supporting a load. It can be produced using light weight flexible material and utilises the basic laws of physics, and strategically placed angles and curves, to provide a rigid, strong and robust tool for distributing the force or weight of a load, once fitted to its user, which can be stored as a small flat (i.e. planar) flimsy object.

The device has many areas of ingenuity, including at least the following two aspects. The first aspect is the strap (also referred to herein as the “first portion”), which is arranged to fit comfortably around and thereby secure to the hand, wrist or arm, thereby distributing the weight or force of a load over a larger body area (e.g. the wrist), preferably away from the fingers. The second aspect relates to the bend shaft (also referred to herein as the “second portion”) that functions as palm and/or finger support, whereby the device is arranged to provide a wide and comfortable load bearing support that allows various types of different loads to be held in the hand. These two aspects have multiple applications, either together or individually.

As user herein, the term hand-held load preferably connotes a load that is, at least in part, held in the hand, for example wherein the device helps support (or distribute) at least part of the weight of the load when held in the hand, preferably wherein the weight of the load is distributed to the hand, wrist or arm to which the device is attached, in use, whereby to ease the load on the fingers for example.

As used herein, the term “single piece of material” preferably connotes a unitary piece of material, for example the same (or sole) piece of material.

As used herein, the term “blank” preferably connotes an item or article having a desired shape, preferably in a substantially planar/two-dimensional form, which can be folded, bent or otherwise manipulated to form a three-dimensional article. The blank may be formed from a piece of material (e.g. sheet material) using a stamping, punching, forging or cutting process (such as die cutting), for example. The term “blank” may also connote an article in unassembled form. Accordingly, when assembled, the article may be described as being formed from a “blank”. As used herein, the term “article” preferably connotes a device, though it is not limited to such a definition.

It will be understood that any apparatus feature described and/or claimed herein may also be provided as a method feature, and vice versa. Furthermore, any feature in a particular embodiment of the invention may be provided independently and/or applied to other embodiments of the invention, in any appropriate combination. As used herein, means plus function features may be expressed alternatively in terms of their corresponding structure.

An example of at least one embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a first example of the device in unassembled form (e.g. a device blank);

FIG. 2 shows two main portions of the device: a strap and a bend shaft;

FIG. 3 shows another view of the device illustrating different sections of the bend shaft;

FIG. 4 shows an end of the strap having cut-outs to form fastening means;

FIG. 5 shows the relative angles of the strap and bend shaft;

FIG. 6 shows the curved edges of the bend shaft of the device;

FIGS. 7 to 11 show how the device may be assembled during attachment to a user's wrist;

FIGS. 12 and 13 show the assembled device secured to a user in different configurations;

FIG. 14 shows how the bend shaft can secure a load placed therein;

FIG. 15 shows the device in a first assembled configuration;

FIG. 16 shows the device in a second assembled configuration;

FIG. 17 shows the device in a third assembled configuration;

FIG. 18 shows a side view of the assembled device supporting a load;

FIG. 19 illustrates further aspects of the device;

FIG. 20 shows the first example of the device together with three alternative examples;

FIG. 21 shows a second example of the device;

FIG. 22 shows an end of a strap portion of the second example of the device;

FIG. 23 shows a third example of the device;

FIG. 24 shows the third example of the device attached to a user's wrist;

FIGS. 25 and 26 show a fourth example of the device in various orientations;

FIG. 27 shows an alternative example of the fourth example of the device, having a pre-curled bend shaft;

FIG. 28 shows the alternative embodiment of the fourth example of the device further having a fastening belt;

FIG. 29 shows a fastening belt for use with the fourth example of the device; and

FIGS. 30 and 31 show schematic views of a device attached to a user's wrist.

It will be noted that, in the figures, the same (or corresponding) reference numerals have (at least in part) been used to show the same (or corresponding) features and/or components.

In FIG. 1, a device 100 according to the invention is shown in unassembled form. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the device 100 includes a first portion 1 (“strap”) and a second portion 2 (“bend shaft”).

As shown in FIG. 3, a first end 3 of the strap 1 is arranged to encircle the wrist, arm and/or hand of a user, and to attach to itself such that the device is thereby “assembled”. A plurality of spaced-apart, semi-circular cut-outs are distributed along the first end 3 of the strap 1 for fastening the device 1 around a user's wrist (etc.) prior to the device 1 becoming operational.

The cut-outs distributed along the strap 1 are substantially semi-circular shaped slots, whereby each slot effectively creates a hinged fastening tab 7 (e.g. a “fastening element”). In the example shown, the device 100 has three such fastening tabs 7, which are arranged such that optionally one, two or all three tabs 7 can be engage with corresponding fastening slots 5 (e.g. “fastening slots”) provided at a second end of the first portion (“strap”) to provide a range of device strengths. Once secured in the fastening slots 5, the tabs 7 may be further secured in place by the pressure of the fitting and/or a load or weight being supported by the device 100.

The size of the tabs 7 and the fastening slots 5 allows for multiple devices 100-1, 100-2 to be placed against each other and fastened. Whilst together they produce a thicker, multi-layered device 100 to provide even greater support, for example, whilst supporting heavier loads. As shown in FIG. 4, the ends 12 of the cut-outs (which produce the tabs) are preferably rounded to reduce the likelihood of the tabs 7 shearing or tearing at those points, which may help to provide a robust strap 1.

The device 100 is also provided with a guide slot 4 at a second end of the first portion 1 (preferably the opposing extremity) of the strap 1. The guide slot 4 (e.g. “guide means”) is an optional fitting aid for a user when adjusting and fastening the device. The fastening slots 5 are spaced apart 8, preferably in a regular spaced arrangement.

A, preferably, round hole 6 is provided for storing the device 100, for example handing it from a hook, or similar.

FIG. 5 shows the relative angles of the different portions 1, 2, 3 of the device 100 in unassembled form. The angle 15 that subtends between the first end 3 of the strap 1 and the opposing (second) end of the strap 1 defines a substantially frustoconical shape when the strap 1 is secured to itself (via the tab(s) 7 and slot(s) 5). Preferably, the first end 3 and second end of the strap 1 are arranged at an angle of between 90 and 180 degrees to each other, or preferably an angle of between 100 and 160 degrees, more preferably an angle of between 120 and 140 degrees, for example an angle of about 130 degrees, so as to form a frustoconical-shaped band when secured to a user's wrist.

The angles 16, 17 subtending between the respective portions of the strap 1 and the vertical axis are, in this example, substantially equal. This arrangement allows the device 100 to be worn on either hand with the short section of the strap 1 being positioned either over the thumb, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 10, or on the opposite side of the hand.

The bend shaft 2 is the section of the device 100 that is placed in the palm of the hand adjacent the base of the fingers. When in operation, the fingers curve bend shaft 2 over to form a handle that can help to support a load.

As shown in FIG. 6, the bend shaft 2 has been designed to take advantage of the strength and rigidity provided by the use of certain angles and curvatures. In addition, the bend shaft 2 uses the opposing forces resulting from the transfer of curvature from the X-axis 28 (see FIG. 19) to the Y-axis 29 to maximise its potential. As a result, forces are distributed from the load through to the strap 1.

In FIG. 3, the bend shaft 2 is broken down into three sections: the body 9, the neck 10 and the head 11. The body 9 is the largest of the three sections, and is where a load is placed in readiness for lifting or supporting (as an example shows in FIG. 14(a)). The body 9 has curved angular edges which exponentially increase the width of the bend shaft 2 from the area nearest to the strap 1 to the head 11, which is the area likely to be in the greatest contact with a supported load. In other words, the bend shaft 2 gets increasingly wider at an increasing rate until it reaches the point where the neck 10 meets with the head 11 of the bend shaft 2. In use, the body 9 of the bend shaft 2 may be curved (or curled over) by a user's fingers (see FIG. 19) to form a semi-tubular channel 26 to help grip or carry a supported load.

The neck 10 of the bend shaft 2 has a substantially exponential increase in width until it reaches the head 11. The neck 10 reduces the likelihood of a supported load unintentionally becoming dislodged from the device 100. The neck 10 is also responsible for directing some of the forces from a supported load through to the head 11.

The head 11 is the widest section of the bend shaft 2. Its function is to provide support to the rest of the bend shaft 2 by reducing the likelihood of the load unintentionally becoming dislodged from the device 100 by providing a curved ridge (or “lip”) at the end (i.e. the extremity) of the bend shaft 2, and by assuming some of the forces from the load which are channeled through the neck 10. The head 11 also provides a comfortable grip in a user's hand whilst fastening the device 100 to the user.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 10, the device 100 may be prepared for use by being attached to a user, as follows:

-   -   1. The user can grip on to the bend shaft 2, as shown in FIG. 7.     -   2. The first end 3 of the strap 1 is passed behind the user's         arm, as shown in FIG. 8.     -   3. The first end 3 of the strap 1 is fed through the guide slot         4 (provided in the second end of the strap 1), as shown in FIG.         9.     -   4. The fastening tabs 7 are inserted in to the fastening slots 5         and pulled backwards so that they slot in firmly behind the         section between the fastening slots 5, as shown in FIG. 10.     -   5. As the user curls their fingers, the end of the bend shaft 2         is curled upwards to form a semi-tubular shaped channel 26 (FIG.         16(b)) ready to bear a load or weight, as shown in FIG. 11.     -   6. The user can use their fingers to adjust the height of the         load in the hand and increase or decrease the level of force         distribution being applied by the device 100 to the wrist, arm         or hand as shown in FIG. 12. The example load is a flimsy         plastic carrier bag 20.     -   7. Whist the device is in operation and/or a load is being         transported, the dual benefit of the particular curvature 14 of         the edges of the bend shaft 2 along with the effect produced         from the Y-axis curvature of the semi-tubular channel 26,         enables the load to remain securely held in the channel 26 with         little likelihood of movement or slippage, and the user's         fingers can continually adjust the amount of force distributed         to the wrist, arm or hand without the need to adjust the strap         or load.

The area around the wide part of the hand, near the base of the thumb, provides a large area that can be used to distribute the weight of a load. FIG. 13 shows how the strap 1, once adjusted to the correct size, can fit comfortably to the hand.

To use the device 100 to carry, for example, a plastic shopping bag the user inserts their hand and the bend shaft 2 through the handle of the bag 20, as shown in FIG. 14(a), and curves the body 9 of the bend shaft 2 around the handle of the load, as shown in FIG. 14(b). If the user wishes for the device 100 to form a tighter grip they can force the bend shaft 2 to bow 25 (see FIG. 17(a)) in the body 9 of the bend shaft 2 whilst ensuring the head 11 of the bend shaft 2 curves towards the body 9 of the bend shaft 2. This will form a self-supporting handle. This tightening effect can result naturally if the load is sufficiently heavy, e.g. the device 100 may effectively be self-tightening.

The device 100 can be fitted to a hand of a user, as shown in FIG. 13, with the strap 1 passing over the back of the hand, as this can provide a large area to distribute the weight on many individuals this would be the most effective position to wear the device 100. When fitted in this manner, the device 1 will not prevent the user from wearing any items such as wristwatch or bracelets on their wrists or arms.

Once the load is in place, the fingers curve the bend shaft 2, as shown in FIG. 11. The curvature produces a rigid tubular, or semi-tubular, shaped channel 26 for a handle (see FIGS. 16(b) and 16(c)) for supporting the load.

Once in operation, and after the user has curved the bend shaft 2 into a semi-tubular channel 26, The neck 10 of the bend shaft 2 has increasing angles, in relation to the load, on the edges as shown in FIG. 14(b) between the edge of the area of the bend shaft 2 supporting the load 21 and the sharpest point on the head 11 of the bend shaft 2. This formed shape provides a hook-like edge, which provides greater support to the load reducing the likelihood of the load slipping or falling off the device 100. This is illustrated in FIG. 14(a) and FIG. 14(b), for example.

As shown in FIG. 6, the outer edges 14 of the bend shaft 2 are curved outwards in order to:

-   -   i) enable the user to adjust the width of the section of the         bend shaft 2 that holds the load. Based on correlation between         length of hand and width of hand, the device 100 is also         designed to adjust to the width of the hand based on the length         of the hand. The longer the hand is, the point in which the user         curves the bend shaft 2 will be further down the bend shaft 2,         thus providing a wider channel for the load 26 (see FIG. 19);     -   ii) reduce the likelihood of the load pulling down on the bend         shaft 2 whilst supporting a load, as shown in FIG. 14(a). Once         the bend shaft 2 is curved upwards into a semi-tubular channel         26 (see FIG. 19) in readiness for a load, the angles created by         the curved shape of the edges of the bend shaft 2 have the         impact of countering the effect of the downward pull of force,         from the load, as shown in FIG. 14(b). Thus, there is little or         no pressure on the bend shaft 2 to straighten or uncurl; and     -   iii) shape comfortably to the contours of the palm of the hand,         as the rounded edges 14 of the bend shaft 2 can curve around the         base of the thumb 14 (see FIG. 13).

An example load, in this case a plastic shopping bag, is shown being placed onto the exemplary device 100 in FIG. 14(a). The tapered sides of the neck 10 of the bend shaft 2 are able to support a load even without curving the bend shaft 2 into a semi-tubular shaped channel 26 across the Y-axis 29 (see FIG. 19). In this fitted state the natural curvature of the strap 1 along the X-axis 28 extends down the bend shaft 2 and the angled edge 31 from the strap 1 to the bend shaft 2 ensures the curvature transfers down the bend shaft 2 to provide the bend shaft 2 with added rigidity. FIG. 14(a) shows the positioning of the load, in this case a plastic bag, resulting in a force that attempts to bend the bend shaft 2 further around, but as the bag is hooked over the neck 10 of the bend shaft 2 the force is opposed by the weight itself which holds the curve true. Whist the curve is maintained, the bend shaft 2 (see FIG. 14(a)) stays rigid and the load can remain supported.

Rigidity is further increased when the user curves the bend shaft 2 into a semi-tubular shaped channel 26 (see FIG. 19).

The device 100 gains additional rigidity and strength from the corresponding curvature of the material along the X-axis 28 and Y-axis 29, which occurs whilst a load is being supported. The X-axis 28 curvature (see FIG. 19) is held in place by the user wearing the device 100 around the wrist, arm or hand. The Y-axis 29 curvature gains its strength from the load being supported and the curvature of the bend shaft 2 by the fingers. The two opposing forces meet at an intersection 30 of the bend shaft 2. Even whilst the device 100 is under pressure from a heavy load, as shown in FIG. 14(c), the X-axis curvature 28, where the bend shaft 2 meets the strap 1, maintains a high level of rigidity, which transfers through the bend shaft 2 to the channel supporting the load, in order to reduce the bowing effect 25 (FIG. 17a ) which would narrow the channel 26 supporting the load. This arrangement results in a comfortable finger grip even when heavy loads are applied to the device 100.

The force of the load is distributed from the semi-tubular channel 26 across the width of the bend shaft 2 through the body 9 of the bend shaft 2 up and through to the strap 1 to the users wrist, arm or hand.

If the load is sufficiently heavy the downward force 22 (see FIG. 14(c)) of the load on the sides of the tubular channel 26 of the bend shaft 2 are met with the upward force 23 of the fingers which can cause the bend shaft 2 to bow, crease or distort to form a curled lip 25. This can have the desired effect of forcing the head 11 of the bend shaft 2 to curl over the (e.g. handle of the) load providing greater rigidity to the device 100 and tightening the grip on the load 27 (FIGS. 14(c) and 17). The curved head 11 of the bend shaft 2 produce a more tubular shape to the channel 26, which reduces the likelihood of further distortion.

Furthermore, the X-axis curvature 28 (see FIG. 19) from the strap 1 transferring to the Y-axis curvature 29 in the bend shaft 2 where the strap 1 and the bend shaft 2 both meet 30 provides rigidity through the bend shaft 2 to minimise any further distortion. This also adds to the overall rigidity of the bend shaft 2 i.e. reducing the risk of the channel 26 from narrowing and squeezing the fingers of the user.

Whilst the length of the tubular channel 26 might shorten, as a result of the bowing 25, the device 100 still provides a comfortable handle for the load. Depending on the material used to produce the device 100 and the thickness of that material, the load required to experience this bowing effect varies. Depending on the material, the user can create this effect on lighter loads by forcing a bend, kink or crease in the centre under the area of the bend shaft 2 supporting the load 21 (FIGS. 14(a) and (b)), whilst curving the head 11 of the bend shaft 2 around the load 21 and towards the body 9 of the bend shaft 2. This will allow the load to be carried with little or no finger support, should the user wish. This curve over the handle of the load further strengthens its grip on the load.

Once the device 100 is fitted, the user is responsible for the distribution of weight across the device 100. The user can vary the load between the bend shaft 2 and the strap 1. It is possible for the user to take all the force from the load on the fingers or none of the force from the load on the fingers.

By feeding the first end 3 of the strap 1 through the guide slot 4 provided in the second end of the strap 1, a user can attach the device 100 with a single hand whilst keeping the strap 1 in the correct position.

The guide slot 4 can be bypassed if the user is able to fit the device 100 without using it or if alternative fastening attachments are used. Additionally, the guide slot 4 may not be required if the device 100 is inserted into, or forms part of, another garment such as, for example, a glove.

The fastening slots 5 allows the first end 3 of the strap 1 to be fastened to the second end of the strap 1, and adjusted for a comfortable fit, using the tabs 7. The user can select which slots 5 to use when fitting the device 100. The slots 5 accommodate individuals with larger or smaller hands using the device 100. This is also used to allow the user to select the width of the semi-tubular channel 26 created by curving the bend shaft 2. If the strap 1 is loosened the device 100 will fit further down in the hand and the area of the bend shaft 2 supporting the load can be higher up the body 9 of the bend shaft 2 where it will be narrower. Alternatively, if the strap 1 is tightened the device 100 will be higher up the hand and the area of the bend shaft 2 supporting the load can be lower down the body 9 of the bend shaft 2 resulting in a wider section to the bend shaft 2 supporting the load.

Aside from being flexible, the device 100 has no moving parts and no additional attachments are required. Other versions of the device 100 could have attachments and alternative fastening mechanisms, but the same principles and benefits described herein would apply, where appropriate.

The device 100 is preferably produced (e.g. die cut or stamped) formed from a single piece of material (e.g. sheet material) such as paper or card; thicker material may be used for the application of greater forces or heavier loads. Preferably, the device is formed from a material having a thickness of less than 5 mm, and more preferably less than 1 mm.

Ideally, the device comprises a tear-resistant material. Sheets of commercially available material comprising polyester, for example Xerox® “Premium Never Tear” synthetic media, or Print4Life “X-Tear Bright White-sided Tear-Resistant Waterproof Film” (a biaxial stretched PET polyester film), may be considered to be “tear-resistant”, for example. Such materials may also be referred to as “polyester film paper”.

Exemplary embodiments include a device 100 having a thickness of about 195 micron and weighing about 4 grams has proven ability to support and distribute loads weighing in excess of 10 kg; a device 100 having a thickness of about 270 microns and weighing about 5 grams has proven ability to support and distribute loads weighing in excess of 20 kg; and a device 100 having a thickness of 350 micron and weighing about 8 grams has proven ability to support and distribute loads weighing in excess of 30 kg.

The high strength results from the design of the device 100, which utilises basic laws of physics to transform the device 100 (during the fitting process) from a flimsy and flexible piece of shaped material into a rigid and strong tool capable of supporting a significant load. The result is a very small, very light and highly flexible tool, especially in comparison with other load supporting tools, which can be mass-produced and distributed very cost effectively.

The device 100 has many applications including, but not limited to, the carrying or transportation of one or more items, the reinforcement or strengthening of gloves, the distribution of weight across the fingers, hand, wrist, upper arm and/or shoulder. The device 100 can also be used to aid the support of individuals whilst holding onto a support rail, banister or over-head rails as found in public transportation vehicles.

The advantages of using the device 100 include a user experiencing less fatigue when carrying one or more items, the ability to carry heavier loads, the ability to carry more items, and the ability to carry a load for longer periods of time than without the device 100. Furthermore, there is less likelihood of physical damage to the fingers, muscles, tendons and ligaments, as well as quicker transportation times of the load due to less stops in which the individual rests or switches position of the load.

Whilst incorporated within, or next to, a glove or on its own, the device 100 can also be used to carry sharp or awkward objects such as planks of wood, sheets of metal or sheets of glass as it protects the fingers whilst distributing the weight. As such, the device 100 has a range of other applications for example, and not limited to, within the building and construction industry or with baggage handling staff at airports.

In particular, the device 100 can be used in many applications where the fingers or palm of the hand are utilised for the carrying, holding, supporting, pulling, pushing or moving of any load, where the load has the ability to be grasped by, or be in contact with, the device 100 or a garment with the device 100 inserted within, next-to or behind it.

The surface of the device 100, on both or either sides, can display a multitude of visual forms, such as, designs, photos, drawings, barcodes, advertising, logos or branding to increase its visual and/or commercial appeal.

The device 100 may have particularly useful application for individuals with physical restrictions such as arthritis, and it can easily be fitted, adjusted or redesigned to accommodate amputees or individuals with physical deformities.

There are many options for the storage of the device 100 including, but not limited to, in a flat form hanging from the hole 6 (see FIG. 3), flattened in a purse or handbag, folded in a clothes pocket, wallet, up-side down on the users arm, or in the correct fitted position in readiness for the next load. Once fitted correctly it has minimal impact on the use of the users hand and fingers.

Once the device 100 is fitted, the guide slot 4 can provide extra rigidity and support to the device 100, which reduces the risk of movement whilst the device 100 is operation.

The device 100 can be fitted on either the left or right wrist, arm or hand and can attached with either the short end of the strap near the thumb or the long end of the strap near the thumb for maximum ease of installation, adjustment and fit, as shown in the ‘right hand’ examples in FIGS. 7 to 11.

The fitting of the device 100 on the hand, as shown in FIG. 13, results in minimal or no impact to the user wearing jewelry such as a wristwatch or bracelet.

The tubular-shaped channel 26 of the bend shaft 2 (see FIG. 16(b)) is comfortable on the fingers, because it:

-   -   i) reduces the likelihood of the load digging into the fingers;     -   ii) distributes the load more evenly across all the fingers,         rather than focusing the weight on one or two fingers; and     -   iii) reduces the likelihood of the load squeezing the fingers in         a manner such as a flimsy plastic grocery bag squashes the         fingers together when being carried by hand.

The channel 26 produced by the bend shaft 2 (see FIG. 16(b)) allows the user to control the orientation of the load supported by the device 100. For example, if the user is carrying a large number of flimsy plastic bags they can maneuver the bags by twisting the wrist to navigate through narrow passages, doorways or into the corner of a busy lift.

The user can adjust the shape of the bend shaft 2 to accommodate a large variety of loads and handles. For example, the user can use the device 100 to lift one bucket with a thin metal handle, a number of large plastic shopping bags, a sheet of glass, a plank of wood or any other object that can be accommodated by the device 100. As mentioned above, an example of the device being used to support a plastic shopping bag is shown in FIG. 13.

The rounded shape of the head 11 of the bend shaft 2 (FIG. 3) provides a comfortable fit for the fingers and palm of the hand as well as providing additional strength to the device 100.

The close-up diagram FIG. 4 shows the rounded ends 12 of the cut-outs 7, which help to provide a neat and even fit when the device 100 is fastened. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the rounded ends 12 reduce the likelihood of pressure point imperfections such as sharp angles, sharp edges or corners within the cut-outs 7 that could increase the risk of the strap 1 tearing whilst the device 100 is in operation. Hence, an effect of the rounded edges 12 is further strengthening of the strap 1. The guide slot 4 and fastening slots 5 may also have similarly rounded ends.

The three fastening tabs 7 (see FIG. 3) accommodate a wider range of user sizes if all three tabs 7 are not inserted into the fastening slots 5.

The frustoconical shape 32 (see FIG. 19) of the fitted strap 1 reduces the risk of the edges of the strap 1 digging into the skin of a user's wrist, arm or hand. When in operation, the shape 32 of the fastened strap 1 is designed to fit comfortably on the wrist and/or hand, as shown in FIG. 13, and the shape 32 will distribute the weight of the load over a large area (and not just on the edges of the strap 1).

The device 100 can be worn on either hand with either the short section of the strap 1 being positioned either over the thumb, as shown in FIG. 7, or on the opposite side of the hand.

After use it is possible for the device 100 to become distorted, especially after supporting heavier weights. Depending on the material used to manufacture the device 100 it may be possible (for example, if using Xerox® “Premium Never Tear” Synthetic Media, or a similar material), to remove or reduce any distortion by placing the device 100 in boiling water or by ironing the device 100 using an iron on a ‘high’ heat setting. Once cooled the device 100 should function as normal.

The device is waterproof and its operation will have little or no impact after being placed in a washing machine and/or tumble dryer.

The bend shaft 2 can be fitted with a non-slip or slip resistant surface, for example by adhering a rubber strip (or other suitable member) to the bend shaft 2, to allow its use with loads that do not allow the full or semi-tubular shaped curvature of the bend shaft 2. This can be used for gripping items such as boxes, crates or used in the health and fitness industry to help support the hand and fingers whilst using equipment such as, for example, rowing machines, ores, dumbbells, pull-up bars, pull-down bars or any other item that requires the user to place a load or force on the fingers or hand.

An attachment may be fitted to the device (e.g. via an adhesive, moulding, riveting or other attachment means such as Velcro®), such as a piece of thicker material or a rigid channel, to further strengthen the device 100, or a specific attachment to fit a specific load (e.g. an adapter for holding a specific item), to enable the one or more of the benefits of the device 100 to be (further) utilised.

Alternative versions of the device 100 may incorporate a strap 1 lining (such as a padded and/or cotton-like material, for example), alternative fastening mechanism (such as Velcro®, for example) and/or non-slip grips over the strap 1 and/or bend shaft 2.

The shape of the fastening tabs 7 may vary according to the design. The hole 6 located along the first (longer) end 3 of the strap 1 can be provided elsewhere on the device 100. For example, the hole 6 can be located along the second (shorter) end of the strap 1, or within the guide slot 4.

The device 100 can be produced with different angles 15 (see FIG. 5) on the strap 1 to alter the steepness of the cone-like angled section shape to accommodate different shaped wrists, arms and hands. Adjustments to the angles 15, 16 and/or 17 can be made to accommodate different shaped hands.

The shape of the bend shaft 2 or the material used can be modified to accommodate different shaped loads.

The shape of the device described herein can be altered to accommodate multiple requirements including, but not limited to, a more comfortable fit, easier fitting, more secure fastening, greater accommodation for varying sized and shaped hands and/or greater aesthetic appeal. Many of the features described herein can be applied to different forms of the device and so they are not exclusive to the device from examples within the descriptions herein.

FIG. 20 shows four example devices (e.g. “forms”). For comparison, the first device form 100 described in detail above (which may be referred to as a ‘first form’) is shown as a comparison against alternative second, third, and fourth device forms 101, 102 and 103. First, second, and third device forms 100, 101 and 102 are produced from a flat sheet that required assembly or fastenings prior to use. Fourth device form 103 requires no assembly or fastening as can be produced in its three-dimensional final form (e.g. it has, at least in part, a pre-formed shape) in readiness for use. The fourth device form 103 may, preferably, comprise a first (‘strap’) portion and a second (“bend shaft”) portion, wherein the first and second portions are formed from a single (or unitary) piece of material.

Second device form 101, as shown in FIGS. 20 and 21, differs from the aforementioned first device form 100 as follows:

-   -   i) The strap 1 of the second device form 101 shown in FIG. 21 is         wider to enable a greater area of weight distribution. This also         allows for a great surface area for printed logos, branding,         advertising or marketing.     -   ii) The fastening tabs 7 shown in FIG. 22 are shaped with edges         43 that are slightly wider than the fastening slots 5 shown in         FIG. 21. When the fastening tabs 7 are inserted into the         fastening slots 5 of FIG. 21 these edges provide a more secure         fitting that is less likely to become inadvertently unfastened.         These edges 43 in FIG. 22 operate as a catch that will hold the         fastening tabs 7 in place. It is still possible to remove the         fastening tabs 7 when the user requires the device to be         unfastened. A clicking sound may be heard when inserting and         removing the fastening tabs 7.     -   iii) At the top of the strap 1 near the main body of the second         device form 101 the edge has a raised section 33 (shown in FIGS.         21 and 30) on either side of the area located above the centre         of the bend shaft 2. These protruding sections are designed to         curve outwards, as shown in FIG. 30, in order to reduce the         impact of the edges of the strap 1 focussing pressure on the         front of the user's wrist or hand whilst the device is in         operation.     -   iv) At the bottom of the strap 1 near the main body of the         second device form 101, the edge has a raised or protruding         section 34 (shown in FIGS. 21, 24, 30 and 31) on either side of         the area located either side of the bend shaft 2. These         protruding sections are designed to curve outwards, as shown in         FIG. 30, in order to reduce the impact of the edges of the strap         1 focussing pressure on sides of the user's hand whilst the         device is in operation.

Third device form 102, as shown in FIGS. 20, 23 and 24, differs from the aforementioned first and second device forms 100 and 101 as follows:

-   -   i) The strap 1 shown in FIG. 23 is ergonomically shaped to         provide a wider area to the back of the hand or wrist to enable         greater weight distribution. It may also provide aesthetical         benefits.     -   ii) The cut out strips 38 provide additional comfort when the         third device form 102 is in operation by adjusting to the shape         of the user's hand. Should the angle or shape of the user's hand         be different to the angle or shape of the fitted         frustoconical-shaped strap 1, the strap slots 38 can adjust         accordingly as shown in FIG. 24.     -   iii) The angle of the bend shaft 2 to the long end of the strap         1 is less than the angle between the bend shaft 2 and the short         end of the strap 1. This offset compensates for the shape of a         user's hand and fingers which can result in a more comfortable         handle whilst supporting a load.     -   iv) A deep cut-out 35 extends through the area where the long         and short end of the strap 1 meet above the bend shaft 2 and may         also extend into the top of the bend shaft 2. This leaves a         large gap 37 that can be used to insert the hand after the third         device form 102 in fastened. An example of a closed strap 1 gap         37 is also shown in FIG. 26a ) as a top-down view and b) as a         bottom-up view.

Once the fastening tabs 7 are inserted into the fastening slots 5 the hand can be inserted through the top of the third device form 102 through the gap 37. When the bend shaft 2 is placed in the correct position in the palm of the hand and the fingers curved around the outside of the bend shaft 2 there is minimal slippage as the forces are transferred from the bend shaft 2 up and through both sides of the strap 1. If the device is not fitted snuggly to the user, the strap 1 can be adjusted by removing the fastening tabs 7 and reinserting them into different fastening slots 5.

Fourth device form 103, as shown in FIG. 20 and FIG. 25 through 31, can differ from the aforementioned first, second, and third device forms 100, 101 and 102 as follows:

-   -   i) It is produced in a fitted form with the bend shaft 2         pre-curled (as shown in FIGS. 20, 27 and 28) or semi-fitted form         with no pre-curl in the bend shaft 2 (as shown in FIGS. 25         and 26) using plastic injection moulding, heat based reshaping         of a single sheet of shaped material or other production         technique that results in a fully formed device. FIG. 25 shows         the device with different orientations, a) is a side on view, b)         and c) show different angles of a front view.     -   ii) The user is not required to fasten a strap as the fourth         device form 103 can be formed with no fastening mechanism. The         user inserts the hand through the gap 37, as shown in FIG. 26a )         which is a view down through the device 103 and b) which is a         view up through the device 103. Once the bend shaft 2 is in the         correct position in the palm of the hand, the device is ready to         support a load.     -   iii) The strap 1 protrusions 33 at the top of the strap 1 shown         in FIGS. 25a, 26a, 27a &b and 30 can be produced in line with         the shape of the strap 1 or flared outwards which would allow         for greater comfort when inserting the hand through the gap 37         and when the device is in use by reducing the likelihood of an         edge digging into the skin.     -   iv) The strap protrusions 34 at the bottom of the strap 1 shown         in FIG. 25a, 26a, 27a &b, 28, 30 and 31 can be produced in line         with the shape of the strap 1 or flared outwards which would         allow for greater comfort when fitting and when the device is in         use by reducing the likelihood of an edge digging into the skin.     -   v) The fourth device form 103 can also be produced with a         cut-out slot 39 (as shown in FIG. 28) and fastening slots 38.     -   vi) An integrated or detachable fastening belt 40 can be used in         order to further secure the device prior to use. This can         increase the range of hand sizes supported by the fourth device         form 103 and can provide additional strength and rigidity.     -   vii) The fastening belt 40, as shown in FIG. 29, can be produced         with included fastening hooks 41 or adhesive, Velcro© or another         type of fastening means. The fastening hooks 41 can be inserted         into the fastening slots 38 FIG. 28 allowing a tighter or         stronger fit on the user.     -   viii) The fastening belt 40 (shown in FIGS. 28 and 29), if         detachable, can include a protruding, preferably mushroom         shaped, fitting 42 which can be inserted into the cut-out slot         39 of fourth device form 103. Once inserted through the larger         section of the cut-out slot 39 the fastening belt 40 can be         pulled in order for the fitting 42 to be secured by a narrower         section of the cut-out slot 39.     -   ix) The fourth device form 103 can be produced in varying sizes         to accommodate the size and shape of different users.

The diagrams include examples of many of the features of the device and it should be noted that features shown in one form of the device can also be included in one or more of the other forms. Additionally, features shown in one or more of the device forms can also be excluded. For example, FIG. 23 shows slots 38 on the strap 1 which may be excluded in favour of using the strap for marketing or branding. Various sizes of the device can accommodate varying hand sizes.

The device 100, or a form of the device 100, could be installed as part of the handle or carrying section of any form of load that would benefit from one of more of the features of the device 100. For example, a briefcase could have the device 100 installed as part of its handle.

The size, shape, angles and fittings of the device 100 may be configured to accommodate a range of requirements such as, but not limited to; gender, culture, ethnicity, demographics, age, race, physical differences, types of load, and application. The device 100 shown in the drawing shows a basic and simple production method using a thin sheet of material where there are no additional parts, such as Velcro® fastening or a softer skin facing material such as padding, as mentioned above. In an alternative, such additional parts could be incorporated into the device 100.

While the present invention has been described herein with reference to a device for distribution of hand-held loads, it is envisaged that blanks of material, preferably sheet material, preferably tear-resistant and/or stretch resistant material, having an arrangement of curves and/or angles configured to form substantially rigid three-dimensional articles could be used to form a range of different devices, tools or items, for example.

It will be understood that the present invention has been described above purely by way of example, and modifications of detail can be made within the scope of the invention. Each feature disclosed in the description, and (where appropriate) the claims and drawings may be provided independently or in any appropriate combination. 

1-29. (canceled)
 30. A device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, the device comprising a single piece of planar sheet material having: a first portion arranged to be fastened around a wrist or arm of a user of the device; and a second portion arranged to provide a handle for receiving the hand-held load in the hand of the user whereby to support, at least in part, the weight of the hand-held load; wherein the device is operable to be moved between: a first configuration, in which the first and second portions are substantially planar such that the device can be laid flat; and a second configuration, in which the first and second portions are moved relative to one another such that the device forms a three-dimensional structure capable of distributing the weight of a hand-held load when fastened to the user.
 31. The device of claim 30, wherein the first portion includes two opposing sides, the device being capable of being used reversibly such that either side of the first portion is capable of resting on the wrist or arm of a user when attached.
 32. The device of claim 30, wherein the first portion is further arranged to provide a strap for fastening around the wrist or arm of a user.
 33. The device of claim 32, wherein a length of the strap is adjustable.
 34. The device of claim 30, wherein the first portion is provided with one or more fastening means for attaching the device to the wrist or arm of a user.
 35. The device of claim 34, wherein the fastening means is configured for releasable fastening of the device to the wrist or arm of a user.
 36. The device of claim 34, wherein the fastening means includes one or more fastening elements provided on a first end of the first portion and one or more fastening slots provided on a second end of the first portion, the one or more fastening elements being arranged to engage with the one or more fastening slots so as to fasten the first end to the second end.
 37. The device of claim 36, wherein the one or more fastening elements are formed by one or more substantially semi-circular slots being provided in the first portion.
 38. The device of claim 36, wherein the one or more fastening elements in the first portion have rounded ends.
 39. The device of claim 30, wherein the first portion has a substantially frustoconical configuration in the second configuration so to conform to the shape of the hand of a user when attached thereto, wherein the frustoconical configuration is arranged such that a diameter of the frustum increases towards the second portion.
 40. The device of claim 30, wherein a second end of the first portion includes means for guiding a first end of the first portion so as to connect the first end and second end together.
 41. The device of claim 30, wherein the first portion is generally perpendicular to the second portion.
 42. The device of claim 30, wherein the second portion is arranged at least in part to fit within a palm of a hand of the user so as to distribute the weight of a hand-held load.
 43. The device of claim 30, wherein the second portion is arranged to extend at least part way across the palm of a hand of the user when the device is attached to the user.
 44. The device of claim 30, wherein the second portion is arranged such that it is capable of being bent by a user's fingers when the device is attached to the user, whereby to be curled over and form a channel in the hand of the user for receiving a load when the device is attached to the user.
 45. The device of claim 30, wherein the second portion is arranged to be supported by at least one of the hand or fingers of a user when the device is attached to the wrist or arm of a user so as to distribute the weight of a hand-held load.
 46. The device of claim 30, wherein the second portion includes concave curved sides arranged such that a distal edge of the second portion, relative to the first portion, has a substantially flared configuration.
 47. The device of claim 46, wherein the second portion is arranged to bow under load whereby the load can be supported by opposing ends of the distal edge of the second portion.
 48. The device of claim 30, wherein a distal edge of the second portion, relative to the first portion, is configured to curl over upon itself when held by a user whereby to secure the load within the second portion.
 49. The device of claim 30, wherein the device is formed from a blank having an arrangement of curves and angles configured such that the blank can be assembled to form a substantially rigid three-dimensional article.
 50. A garment comprising the device of claim
 30. 